Capital Bikeshare 101

Welcome! You’ve just become a member of the best Bikeshare system in the United States (okay, we’re biased).
If this is your first time as a member of a bikesharing system, we want to show you the ropes and help you navigate the stations, bikes and places to ride that make up this wonderful transportation option.

First, A little about us:

Now, let’s do a little run down of all the things you need to know to use Capital Bikeshare quickly, safely and easily. These 17 videos will help you get to know a little bit about the system and make your first ride smooth and simple.

1. Finding a Bike

Looking for a station, bike or dock? Download the Capital Bikeshare app and get up-to-the-minute info on stations near you.

2. Using the Kiosk

Don’t have your phone handy? You can get bike and dock info about nearby stations from any station kiosk. Simply select “additional info” and follow the prompts.

3. Adjusting the Seat Height

Before you ride, it’s important to get the seat height right for you. Raise or lower for your inseam.

4. Helmets

We always recommend using a helmet while riding Capital Bikeshare bikes.

5. Unlocking a Bike

To check out a bike, simply use your key or code, wait for the green light and lift the bike from under the seat. Easy!

6. Returning a Bike

To return a bike to a station, push it firmly into the dock, wait for the green light and you’re good to go.

7. Ring that Bell!

Be courteous to those around you. Ring that bell and let them know you are riding nearby.

8. Report a Bike Issue

Have an issue with your Capital Bikeshare bike? When you return it to the nearest dock, please press the red wrench button on the dock to indicate that the bike has a problem and our staff will check it out.

9. Forget Your Key?

Forget your membership key? No worries. Use your card to access your membership and check out a bike.

10. Be Alert

Be alert while riding, mindful of your surroundings and aware of those around you.

11. Follow All Traffic Laws

We expect all of our members to obey traffic laws while riding Capital Bikeshare bikes. No exceptions.

12. Riding on Sidewalks

Ride on the sidewalk only when necessary. If you do ride on a sidewalk (where allowed), yield the right of way to people walking. We remind you that riding on sidewalks is illegal in the Downtown DC Central Business District and on King Street in Old Town Alexandria.

13. Ride With Traffic

Never ride against the flow of traffic. Always ride in the same direction.

14. Safety at Intersections

Be careful at intersections. Make eye contact with others, signal your intentions and proceed with caution.

15. Use Hand Signals

Use your hand signals to indicate your intentions. Be predictable, alert and lawful.